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Sweet and Savory Honey Roasted Butternut Squash Stuffed with Chicken

This delightful dish combines roasted butternut squash with shredded chicken, honey, and savory spices for a warm, filling meal perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the squash
  • 2 medium butternut squash Choose heavy butternut squash for best flavor.
For the filling
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Ensure chicken is cooked thoroughly before shredding.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Used for brushing the squash.
  • 2 tbsp honey Drizzle over squash before roasting.
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon Adds warmth and sweetness.
  • Salt and black pepper to taste Salt and black pepper
  • 1 small onion, diced For flavoring the chicken filling.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced For flavoring the chicken filling.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil Optional for sautéing onion and garlic.
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth Used to heat the shredded chicken.
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins Optional for added sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans Optional for added crunch.
For garnishing
  • Fresh parsley, chopped For garnishing.
  • Drizzle of honey For serving.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cut the butternut squash in half and brush the cut sides with olive oil.
  3. Drizzle honey over the squash and sprinkle with cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
  4. Place the squash cut side down on a baking sheet and roast for 30–40 minutes, or until tender.
Filling
  1. In a mixing bowl, heat the shredded chicken with the chicken broth, then stir in the Parmesan cheese and season to taste.
  2. Mix the scooped-out squash flesh into the chicken filling.
  3. Generously stuff each half of the butternut squash.
Final Baking
  1. Return the stuffed squash halves to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden.

Notes

Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley and an extra drizzle of honey on top for added sweetness. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. If desired, sauté onion and garlic before mixing them into the filling for added flavor. To add some heat, consider adding cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture.